The cheers from the broadcast faded, and the Prism Tower's living room slowly settled into silence. The image of Serena standing on stage with her ribbon held high still lingered on the TV screen. Bonnie sat on the floor with Dedenne in her lap, swaying with joy. Pikachu nestled beside her, tail swishing rhythmically. Clemont pushed his glasses up, smiling gently, while Riley stood by the window, arms crossed, quietly observing.

Ash, who had been sitting forward on the couch throughout the contest, exhaled softly and stood up without a word. The sudden movement caught everyone's attention.